Antonio Rudiger's Chelsea exit is looking increasingly likely as the January transfer window edges closer.

The German is free to speak with European clubs from January 1 and Real Madrid are reportedly drawing up a pre-contract proposal for the defender.

Rudiger has been a colossus for Chelsea this season and has played a key role in helping the European champions mount a title challenge under Thomas Tuchel.

But Sport Italia believe that the 28-year-old is now ready to put pen to paper on an agreement to join Los Blancos in the summer.

Paris Saint-Germain are also said to be keen on the Germany international but they will have to move quickly to beat the LaLiga giants.

Chelsea have thrown everything at Rudiger in recent weeks in an effort to tie him down to a new contract at Stamford Bridge.

But the former Roma man wants a substantial wage increase and a new challenge — something that both Real and PSG seem happy to provide.

Cavani eyeing Barca switch

Edinson Cavani has his sights set on a switch to Barcelona in the coming months, report the Daily Express.

The seasoned marksman is said to be discussing contract terms with the Catalan club after seeing his starting opportunities at Old Trafford severely limited. 

The Uruguayan has only appeared in five Premier League games this season and is thought to be frustrated with the Red Devils.

And with Sergio Aguero announcing his retirement from football last week, Cavani is in the running to replace the Argentine at the Camp Nou.

Barca have been struggling this season — the Blaugrana have already dropped into the Europa League and sit seventh in La Liga.

But the capture of Cavani could provide a timely boost early in new boss Xavi's reign.

In other news

Borussia Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke has confirmed that Real Madrid are interested in signing Erling Haaland in the summer, say BILD.

The Norwegian has the freedom to choose his next club and the Bernabeu is a potential destination for the striker.

The Mail report that Atletico Madrid will let Kieran Trippier join Newcastle for £15million if they can find a replacement for the 31-year-old.

Matthijs de Ligt is ready to take the next step in his career and leave Juventus with his agent Mino Raiola negotiating a move, according to Calciomercato.